H. ‘Primal Instinct’

Overview

Registered in 2009 as a sport of *Hosta* 'Principal's List', 'Primal Instinct' is a giant hosta distinguished by its heavily corrugated, deeply cupped and folded leaves of medium blue-green with broad creamy white margins. The leaf margins, approximately 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) wide, taper toward the tip and are slightly rippled, while the leaf surface is dull on both sides and bears 15 to 16 vein pairs.

In the Garden

'Primal Instinct' forms an upright mound reaching 28 inches (71.1 cm) in height and 44 inches (111.8 cm) in diameter, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, as is typical for blue-green hostas, and its substantial, corrugated foliage provides textural contrast alongside finer-leaved perennials such as ferns or heucheras. The dark green scapes, 26 to 34 inches (66.0 to 86.4 cm) tall, bear pale lavender flowers in midsummer.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during the growing season, particularly in warmer climates, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most large-leaved hostas, 'Primal Instinct' is susceptible to slug damage and may require protective measures in damp conditions.